Financial support from the government: the key to a successful startup in Poland

Launching a startup is a complex and resource-intensive process that requires significant financial investments. In Poland, there are various government programs aimed at supporting startups and small businesses. In this article, we will examine the key types of financial support from the government that can become an important resource for the successful launch of your startup.

Types of government support for startups in Poland

Government support for startups in Poland includes various programs and initiatives that provide financial resources, consultations, and infrastructure for business development:

• Grants and subsidies: Programs providing non-repayable funds for the launch and development of startups.
• Loans and credits: Preferential loan programs with low interest rates and flexible repayment terms.
• Incubators and accelerators: Programs providing startups access to mentorship, training, and funding.
• Tax benefits: Tax relief and exemptions for startups and innovative enterprises.
• Competitions and innovation support programs: Competitions and initiatives aimed at supporting innovative projects and technologies.

Grants and subsidies

Grants and subsidies are one of the most popular types of financial support for startups. In Poland, there are many programs providing non-repayable funds for various purposes:

• National Centre for Research and Development (NCBiR): Grant programs for innovative projects and research.
• Polish Agency for Enterprise Development (PARP): Grants and subsidies for small and medium-sized businesses for development and international expansion.
• European funds: EU-funded programs providing grants for startups and innovative enterprises.

Loans and credits

For startups that need additional financial resources, government loans and credits can be an excellent solution. Such programs often offer favorable conditions:

• Entrepreneurship Support Fund (FPF): Preferential loans for startups and small businesses.
• European Investment Bank (EIB) programs: Loans and financial instruments for innovative projects.

Incubators and accelerators

Incubators and accelerators provide startups not only with financial support but also access to mentorship, training, and networking. Some of the leading programs in Poland include:

• Startup Hub Poland: Support program for technology startups with international potential.
• MIT Enterprise Forum Poland: Acceleration program for innovative projects in various industries.
• Google for Startups Campus Warsaw: Incubator and community for startups, providing access to resources and mentorship.

Tax incentives

Poland offers various tax incentives for startups and innovative enterprises, allowing them to reduce tax burdens and direct more resources towards business development:

• Tax deductions for research and development (R&D): Benefits for companies investing in innovation and research.
• Tax holidays: Exemption from profit tax for new companies for a certain period.

Competitions and innovation support programs

Participation in competitions and innovation support programs can provide startups not only with financial resources but also with recognition, which is important for attracting investors and partners:

• StartUp Poland Competition: National competition for startups with innovative ideas and projects.
• Horizon 2020 Program: European funding program for innovative projects and research.

Government support plays a key role in the successful launch and development of startups in Poland. By taking advantage of grants, loans, incubators, tax incentives, and participating in competitions, startups can significantly increase their chances of success. Researching available programs and proper planning will help you take advantage of all opportunities for developing your business.

«Financial support from the government is not only additional resources but also an opportunity to focus on innovations and the development of your startup.»